Adapting for Learners' Cultural Diversity in Open Courses: MOOC Instructors' Efforts at Personalized Learning Environments

• In Event: 72.050 - Poster Session 17
  In Poster Session: 72.050-4 - Instructional Technology SIG Poster Session 1

Abstract

This mixed methods study investigates the tools and techniques massive open online courses (MOOCs) instructors used to reshape the learning environment for cultural diversity and learner personalization. Leveraging a grounded theory approach the researchers analyzed 19 email interviews from MOOC and distance education leaders supplemented by 28 archival, participant-written case descriptions. Leading to the analysis and formation of an online questionnaire, which was completed by 134 MOOC instructors. While most of instructors did not understand complex issues of cultural diversity, most made attempts to modify their instructional practices to accommodate cultural variances. A majority of the instructors favored collaborative, small group learning; however the instructors could not agree on best practices to establish these groups.

Authors

• Najia Sabir, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Curtis J. Bonk, Indiana University

• Mimi Miyoung Lee, University of Houston

• Meina Zhu, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Shuya Xu, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Annisa Sari, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Minkyoung Kim, Indiana University - Bloomington